Description

Easy Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tender orzo pasta with a colorful array of fresh vegetables, olives, and artichokes tossed in a zesty lemon Dijon dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues, holiday gatherings, or as a make-ahead meal, this salad can be served warm or chilled, making it an incredibly versatile addition to any dining occasion. Each bite bursts with bright flavors and delightful textures, ensuring that this dish will become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups dried orzo pasta
1 medium English cucumber, diced
1 large tomato or 8 ounces halved cherry tomatoes
½ cup fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or mint)
½ cup pitted olives, halved
1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
2 to 4 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice, depending on taste
Salt and fresh ground black pepper

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Instructions

Cook the orzo according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well.
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey/maple syrup, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Mix the warm drained orzo into the dressing until evenly coated; let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
Add cucumber, tomato (or cherry tomatoes), fresh herbs, olives, and artichokes; toss gently to combine.
Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm or refrigerate for an hour to serve chilled.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg